MADE BY HAND: A table for eight

When it's warm outside, there's nothing better than sharing an al fresco meal on the patio or deck. Especially during the summer, it's easy to see that the great outdoors is incomplete without a place to enjoy a barbecue, play cards or just sit around and chat.

Picnic Table & Bench Combo

This classic picnic table and bench combination is the perfect way for do-it-yourselfers to create an instant outdoor dining room. Made from the builder's choice of standard lumber (redwood, pine, cedar and fir all work well), the table is designed to comfortably seat eight. The four integral benches are easy to access from either end and are always in just the right place.

Although the project requires careful measuring and cutting, it's easy enough for most woodworkers. First, cut out and sand all the parts. Next, assemble the tabletop, frame and attached bench seats using screws, nails and carriage bolts. Finally, apply a coat of sealer, fire up the grill and pour the lemonade.

Overall, the picnic table and bench combo measures about 7.5 feet across and stands 29 inches tall. The tabletop is about 52 inches across.

The Picnic Table & Bench Combo plan, No. CW011, is $12.95 and includes step-by-step directions with photos, construction diagrams and a shopping list and cutting schedule.

A package of four other picnic table plans, No. C91, is available for $22.95 and includes plans for two rectangular tables, a round table and an octagonal table, all with separate benches. A catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $2. Please include $4 for postage and handling (except catalog-only orders) and allow about two weeks for delivery.

To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, Staten Island Advance, 3800 Oceanic Dr., Ste. 107, Oceanside, Calif., 92056. To order by credit card, call 1-800-828-2453.
Visit U-Bild on the web at u-bild.com.